John F. Gutcheck

After fighting a brief illness, John F. Gutcheck passed away at home on Monday, Nov. 18.

His dedication to the City of Dillon lasted over 34 years.

John’s 30-year career with the Dillon Police Department began March 5, 1980, when he was hired as a patrol officer by the late Ray Lynch. There was one stipulation upon his hiring: he would shave and get a haircut.

John worked diligently at his career, learning anything that would help ensure the safety and protection of the citizens of Dillon and Beaverhead County. The DARE program and finger printing the young children of the community was a special time in his life. Upon his retirement on Oct 31, 2009, as Police Chief, John was sworn in as the Dillon City Judge. He loved the challenges and was tested by learning a different side of the law.

John was born in Anaconda, on Oct. 10, 1952, to Robert and Joyce Gutcheck. He spent most of his childhood playing behind the Anaconda Foundry below the C Hill. He loved to construct forts and play in the dirt with his trucks. He continued to play in the dirt with his grandson this last summer.

All of his life, he loved fishing, hunting, hiking and enjoying all that Montana could provide. He learned to tie flies from his father, as well as how to wire a house. He enjoyed spending hours in the reloading room creating the perfect round for his sons’ rifles and passing on his knowledge of reloading.

John is survived by: his wife of 37 years, Paulette; his son, Nicholas; his grandson, Johnathan; his mother, Joyce; his brother, Glenn; sisters Marilyn (Dennis) Dick and Chris (Steve) Arveschoug; sister-in-law Marla (Larris) Allick; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by: his father, Robert; and in-laws Marv and Betty Eccleston.